May 1, 2026 Statement: Trade Union Confederation of Productive Forces Denounces Escalating Repression of Trade Union Freedoms in Algeria

On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the Trade Union Confederation of Productive Forces issued a strong statement expressing its unequivocal rejection of the ongoing restrictions on trade union freedoms in Algeria, warning of the dangers posed by systematic policies aimed at weakening independent trade unionism and stripping it of its substance.

The statement also highlights what it describes as **“trade union pluralism in name only”** in Algeria, a façade presented to the international community while, in practice, serving to fragment the labour movement and prevent the emergence of independent trade unions, particularly in strategically important sectors of the economy. It further criticises the authorities for maintaining a monopoly over national-level trade union representation in favour of the General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA), while targeting COSYFOP as an independent trade union alternative.

The Confederation further states that these policies have forced several trade union leaders into exile, while thousands of activists continue their struggle within the country under extremely difficult conditions. It also reiterates its call for the immediate release of trade union leader The case of trade unionist Ali Mammeri clearly illustrates this pattern, holding the authorities fully responsible for his continued detention.

The statement emphasizes that the struggle for trade union freedom in Algeria is no longer limited to social demands, but has become a struggle for the very existence of the independent trade union movement.